For rugby fans, few sporting events stir up as much excitement, tradition, and raw passion as a British & Irish Lions Tour. Every four years, the best players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales unite to take on one of the southern hemisphere’s rugby giants and in 2025, all eyes are on Australia.
But here’s the thing: the Lions Tour isn’t just about rugby. Sure, the matches will deliver edge-of-your-seat moments, but it’s also about the adventure. Following the tour means exploring some of Australia’s most vibrant cities, soaking up the atmosphere, and making memories that go way beyond the pitch.
If you’re thinking about joining the Lions on this incredible journey, here’s a quick guide to the top cities you’ll want to experience and what makes each one so special.
Perth: Where It All Begins
The tour kicks off in Perth, where the Lions will face the Western Force. Perth is a bit of a hidden gem for many international travellers, it’s got laid-back charm, stunning Indian Ocean beaches, and some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see.
Matchday at Optus Stadium promises to be electric, with passionate local fans filling the stands. But when you’re not watching rugby, take time to explore Kings Park (one of the world’s largest inner-city parks), sip cocktails on the waterfront at Elizabeth Quay, or head out to nearby Swan Valley for some local wine tasting. It’s the perfect mix of city buzz and coastal calm.
Brisbane: Pure Rugby Passion
Next up is Brisbane, a city that eats, sleeps, and breathes rugby. When the Lions roll into town, the whole place lights up from the pubs to the riverfront to Suncorp Stadium itself.
Brisbane offers a brilliant mix of modern urban energy and Queensland outdoor fun. You can stroll the Brisbane River, check out the South Bank’s museums and galleries, or dive into the local food scene. But come matchday, you’ll want to be in Suncorp, the atmosphere here is legendary, and it’s an experience every rugby fan should have at least once.
Melbourne: Sport and Style
Melbourne is often called Australia’s sporting capital and with good reason. From the iconic MCG to the Australian Open, this city knows how to host a world-class event, and the Lions Test match here will be no exception.
Beyond rugby, Melbourne is all about discovery. Wander through its famous laneways, sip coffee at hidden cafes, explore cutting-edge art galleries, or shop at stylish boutiques. Fancy venturing further? Take a day trip down the Great Ocean Road or explore the beautiful Yarra Valley wine country. Whether you’re pitch-side or city-hopping, Melbourne delivers.
Sydney: The Grand Finale
Finally, the tour wraps up in Sydney and what a place to finish. With the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and Bondi Beach as your backdrop, this is a city packed with postcard-worthy sights.
The Test match at Accor Stadium is set to be a blockbuster, but don’t miss the chance to climb the Harbour Bridge, take a ferry across the sparkling harbour to Manly, or simply unwind at a waterfront bar. Sydney offers the perfect mix of big-city buzz and laid-back coastal vibes, making it the ultimate grand finale to an unforgettable tour.
The Lions Tour 2025 isn’t just a series of rugby matches, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey through some of Australia’s most exciting and beautiful cities. Whether you’re cheering in the stands in Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, or Sydney, every stop adds something unique to the adventure.
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